Abstract:Myth is a kind of cultural and national consciousness accumulation. Greek mythology has exerted a profound influence on all aspects of social life in western countries. It is not only the source of the vigorous culture of the West, but also deeply rooted in the languages of the western countries, and it becomes the key to understand and study the languages of the western countries. A large number of allusions and idioms derived from ancient Greek and Roman mythology have entered various fields of people's social life in western countries through literary works, which not only greatly expanded the number of words in English, but also effectively enhanced the expressiveness of English language. English words are more vibrant by the contributions of ancient Greek and Roman mythology. Through the analysis of the names of ancient Greek mythical figures, this paper expounds the influence of mythological culture and other cultural factors on English, and shows the cultural information behind English vocabulary. It is helpful for English learners to increase their interest in learning, enlarge their vocabulary and understand the origin of western culture.

Key words: Greek Mythology; Names of God; English Words

Contents

Abstract

中文摘要

Introduction-1

I. The Origin and Development of Greek Mythology-3

A. The Origin-3

B. The Development-5

Ⅱ. English Words from the Names of Greek Gods-7

A. The Image and Meaning of the Names of the Gods-7

B. Allusion Idioms from Ancient Greek Mythology-9

III. The Influence of Gods’ Names on English Derived Words-13

A. The Influence on the Root of English Words-13

B. The Influence on English Learning-14

C. The Influence on the Meaning of Modern Words-17

Conclusion-19

Bibliography-20

Acknowledgements-21